Panel Upgrade FAQ
Generally speaking, electric panels need to be replaced once every 25 to 40 years. Like anything, electrical panels can begin to lose their effectiveness over time, leading to the likes of wire discoloration, breakers that either fail to trip or trip too often and a slew of other issues. You may also need to upgrade your panel if you’re running electricity in an addition or finishing your basement and you need more circuits to adequately support an increased electrical draw.
Do I need a permit to upgrade my electrical panel?
Yes, in just about any and every situation when electrical work is being done on your home, you’ll need to have a permit before work can begin. Pulling a permit will verify that the electrical work is being performed up to code and done properly. While electrical codes vary based on where you live, they are enforced. Not only will you have to get a permit done prior to any electric panel work, but an inspector will likely come to your property after the work has been done to ensure it has been performed correctly.
Improper electrical work can lead to dangers such as electrocution and an increased risk of a fire. Having the work permitted is one way to ensure that it’s being done properly and minimize any risk.
When should I upgrade my electrical panel?
As we said in the intro, electrical panels should be replaced every 25 to 40 years. They may also be upgraded for a variety of reasons. Typically, electrical panel upgrades consist of either adding new circuits to support more electric draw or replacing a panel when it has reached the end of its functional lifetime. Some reasons to upgrade an electrical panel include:
– After a home addition
– Circuit breakers that trip frequently
– Excessive corrosion or rust on the current panel
– Regularly flickering lights
– Signs of wire corrosion or even a burning smell coming from the panel
How long does it take to upgrade an electrical panel?
Depending on the type of panel you need and how many electricians are working on the job, an electrical panel upgrade can take anywhere from eight to 20 hours. In the average American home, a panel upgrade usually takes between four and eight hours.
Can I upgrade my electrical panel on my own?
Only professional, certified electricians should ever attempt an electrical panel upgrade. Even if you’re somewhat handy and think you can do the work yourself, the risks greatly outweigh the reward of doing so. One small slip-up could lead to a major injury or even complete electrical system ruin. If the work wasn’t performed up to code, your home could also fail an inspection if you were ever to sell it. For peace of mind of knowing that the job is done right, it’s always best to work with a professional electrician.
